Tahoe home improvement: Solving the puzzle of mixing patterns and prints

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INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. - The process of selecting patterns and prints can become a huge puzzle! What to use where? How to balance the scale and design of the patterns and prints you love? How much is too much? How much is too little? The questions go on and on!

Generally speaking, strong patterns work best when given top billing in your design plan.

For instance, a large scale floral will work well with a medium scale geometric pattern or even a mini print.

Smaller scale patterns always tend to add punch to a room without vying for attention with dominant patterns.

Most often a smaller scale pattern almost appears to be a solid when viewed at a distance.

I suggest you begin your mixing and matching with a main pattern, which will become your roadmap for all future design decision. Patterns can be enhanced throughout the room, and will also aid you in creating a color scheme. Finding a common color theme is one of the best ways to tie two or more patterns together. Once your main anchor pattern and color scheme is determined, the entire design plan will begin to flow with creativity and ease!

- Kristen Fencl, CID, is an interior decorator and owner of Decorating Den Interiors. Learn more at www.decdens.com/kristenf, or call 775-832-8012.